MODESTO – The Lake Elsinore Storm’s pursuit of the California League title ended in heartbreak as they fell to the Modesto Nuts in a dramatic three-game series. After clinching the first half Southern Division Championship and triumphing over the Visalia Rawhide in the semifinals, the Storm entered the finals brimming with potential.
Their series opener saw the Storm take an early lead against Modesto, but defensive errors in the ninth inning allowed the Nuts to score three crucial runs, culminating in a 10-8 loss for Lake Elsinore. The setback was compounded by the fact that the team offered free tickets and complimentary hot dogs to 3,000 fans in an effort to boost community support.
Facing elimination, the Storm traveled to Modesto for their next matchup, which was nothing short of a comeback for Lake Elsinore, who dominated with a 9-2 victory. The team erupted for six runs in the third inning and added three more in the ninth, ensuring a decisive win and leveling the series at one game apiece.
Their final game, and rubber match, held on September 18, saw the defending champion Modesto Nuts ultimately secure their back-to-back titles. The Storm held a 1-0 lead until the fifth inning, when Milkar Perez drew a bases-loaded walk to tie the game. Josh Caron then grounded the go-ahead run, which proved to be the game’s final score. Despite their efforts, the Storm were unable to score again, and the game ended 2-1 in favor of Modesto.
Lake Elsinore’s season concluded on a note of disappointment, but the team remains a vital part of the Southwest Riverside County community. According to City Council Member Tim Sheridan, “The words ‘Lake Elsinore Storm’ and ‘community’ have become synonymous in our region.”
While the players take a break for the winter, The Diamond, the Storm’s home stadium, continues to be a hub of activity. In the coming months, the venue will host events like concerts, boxing matches and the upcoming Micromania Wrestling on October 11, offering entertainment for local residents even in the baseball off-season.
Check out the Valley News social media channels for opportunities to win tickets to games and visit www.stormbaseball.com for ticket info, promotions schedules and more.
JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.com.
